When Lionel Messi made the decision to join Inter Miami CF, the team saw a surge in betting activities. The American sports betting industry witnessed a record-breaking betting handle in the MLS from 2022 to 2023. This spike was due to the addition of Messi, as well as his former Barcelona teammates, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, to the team. Despite the initial struggles of the team, the arrival of these star players generated significant interest in Inter Miami CF.
The Favorites to Win MLS Cup
Heading into the 2024 season, Inter Miami CF solidified their position as the favorites to win the MLS Cup. The addition of Luis Suárez to the already talented squad further strengthened their chances. Betting odds at various sportsbooks, such as ESPN BET, BetMGM, and DraftKings, reflected the high expectations for Inter Miami CF. The overwhelming majority of bets and handle were placed on the Herons, indicating a strong belief in their potential to secure the championship.
While Inter Miami CF is widely considered the team to beat this season, there are differing opinions on their odds. FanDuel reports that the club ranks second in betting splits, with FC Cincinnati leading in both bets and handle. This suggests that not everyone is convinced that Inter Miami CF will achieve success this season. Other MLS teams with less hype, such as Colorado, Columbus, Orlando, Portland, and Cincinnati, are also attracting attention from sharp bettors, highlighting the competitive nature of the league.
Challenges Faced by Inter Miami CF
Despite being favored to win the MLS Cup, Inter Miami CF faces significant challenges that could impact their performance. The age of key players, including Messi, Alba, Busquets, and Suárez, presents a potential risk due to the likelihood of injuries among older athletes. Additionally, the demanding schedule, which includes participation in various competitions such as the Concacaf Champions Cup and the Leagues Cup, as well as international commitments with their respective national teams, may limit the availability of these star players for crucial matches.
Regardless of Inter Miami CF’s performance this season, the heightened betting activity surrounding the team has benefited Major League Soccer as a whole. The increased attention and discussions around the team’s odds have provided an additional dimension to the league’s narrative. The debate over whether Inter Miami CF’s odds are appropriately set has sparked interest and engagement among fans and bettors alike.
The betting landscape surrounding Inter Miami CF reflects the high expectations placed on the team due to the presence of iconic players like Lionel Messi. While the team is favored to win the MLS Cup, they face challenges that could impact their chances of success. The conflicting views on their odds and the competitive nature of the league add an element of uncertainty to the outcome. Despite the potential obstacles, the increased betting handle and discussions surrounding Inter Miami CF have brought valuable attention to Major League Soccer, further enhancing the league’s profile in the sports betting industry.